A group of 8 friends, including myself, shared the upper villa for the new year holiday. The house is great, simple but nice and clean and has everything you may need. The only downside I can think of is that there are only two bathrooms, with the best one in the master bedroom. We shared both which meant we had to go through the master bedroom to get to that one. Otherwise the place is perfect for a group or large family gathering!
No, it's not right on a beach but you would have to pay a LOT more for that and all beaches are easily accessible via car. You will need a car. There is no public transport on the island and it is basically rural. This house is on the opposite end of the island than the resorts and is in more of a "local" town. That being said there are a few restaurants within walking distance from the house. Down on the beach we loved Falcons Nest. FRESH fish at a good price ($15 US for the meal).
Shoal Bay is indeed the closest beach for swimming etc. White sand, aqua water. Gorgeous. Rent a chair and umbrella for $5 for the day and sit back and relax. The house has a cooler you can use to pack lunch and save money. Our other favorite beaches were on the other side of the island: Rendezvous Bay and Meads Bay.
Speaking of money, they take US dollars everywhere. The grocery stores all have prices in East Caribbean Dollar, but convert to US$ without you even asking. They did not seem to welcome Euros (St Martin does take Euros), but all the ATM’s on Anguilla let you pull out US$. There is a small market within walking distance of the house. Basically go to the main road, turn left and go up the hill maybe ¼ mile, stor is on the left.
Other than that, my only word of advice is to call Garvin for everything. We got a bit confused as to who to call for what as there is a property management company that welcomes you and can get you a car etc, but Garvin manages the day to day workings at the villa and can get you anything, extra bed, will take you fishing. Just call him and not the management company if you need ANYTHING.
Other than that, you are set! They have lots of beach towels for you, and extra snorkel gear at the house too. You could just show up with a bathing suit and be set ☺ The best thing is that because you are not spending all your money on an expensive hotel room, you can splurge on other fun stuff... diving, kite surfing, fancy dinners... whatever you want!